EDB Engages with Palestinian Ambassador to Boost Bilateral Trade Opportunities

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) recently welcomed Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Sri Lanka, Ihab I.M. Khalil, for a courtesy call aimed at strengthening bilateral trade relations and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

Strengthening Market Access

The discussions focused on enhancing market access for Sri Lankan products in Palestine, with both sides identifying key sectors where Sri Lanka holds strong export potential. Highlighted product categories included:

• Ceylon Tea
• Natural rubber and rubber-based products
• Coconut-based products such as desiccated coconut and virgin coconut oil
• Spices, particularly Ceylon Cinnamon and pepper
• Processed food and beverages
• Ayurveda and herbal-based personal care products

Initiatives for Collaboration

As a next step, the EDB proposed organising an online awareness session targeting these sectors, with the participation of potential Palestinian buyers, trade chambers, and trade promotion organisations. This initiative aims to foster direct linkages between Sri Lankan exporters and Palestinian counterparts, supported by information sharing and structured matchmaking.

Looking further ahead, both parties also discussed opportunities to arrange business delegations, B2B meetings, factory visits, and trade-related engagements to establish long-term commercial partnerships.

Building Strategic Trade Relationships

This engagement reflects the EDB’s commitment to diversifying export markets and building strategic trade relationships with emerging economies. By strengthening ties with Palestine, Sri Lanka continues to create new opportunities for its exporters, particularly within the wider Middle Eastern region.